Oneida County Joins Statewide STOP-DWI Super Bowl Crackdown

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. announced today that the Sheriff’s Office, local police agencies and New York State Police will be participating in a special statewide operation to combat impaired driving during Super Bowl weekend.

The STOP-DWI Super Bowl High Visibility Engagement Campaign begins February 10^th and ends February 13th.

 “The Super Bowl has become its own national holiday and many people throughout Oneida County will be getting together this weekend to celebrate,” Picente said. “Whether you are rooting for the Chiefs or the Eagles, or are just looking forward to seeing family and friends and checking out the commercials, please do not let this fun time end in tragedy by driving distracted or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Our law enforcement agencies will be heavily patrolling our roadways to make sure that everyone gets to their destinations safely and enjoys the big game.”

Research conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that programs like the High Visibility Engagement Campaign, which publicize and enforce the consequences of impaired driving, lead to reductions in fatalities by reducing the incidence of impaired driving.

“The Super Bowl is America’s most-watched national sporting event and this weekend is historically a deadly period for impaired driving,” said Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol. “Alcohol-related incidents are 100% preventable, Have a plan. If you choose to drink, do not drive.”

The STOP-DWI Super Bowl High Visibility Engagement Campaign is one of many statewide initiatives promoted by STOP-DWI NY and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. The campaign also targets Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, the Holiday Season and St. Patrick’s Day.

For more information on STOP-DWI efforts in Oneida County, please visit www.ocgov.net/STOPDWI.